You're making a huge mistake using cheap smartphone chargers

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If you're using a cheap, third-party charger or battery for your smartphone, stop using it now and buy an official model from the same company that makes your smartphone or an accessory that's officially licensed.

Cheap chargers and batteries aren't properly built, nor are they certified by any reputable organization. And they can explode, catch fire, destroy your smartphone, and even injure you.

Still, some third-party accessories are well made, so make sure to read the reviews to see if anyone else has experienced any, you know, explosions.

Not convinced?

Check out these horror stories and we guarantee you'll change your mind.

Although rare, authentic phone batteries made of lithium can still malfunction and explode. This iPhone 4's battery is expanding after being stored for a year.

But you can minimize any risk by using either authentic accessories, or officially licensed accessories from third parties. When in doubt, just use accessories made by the same manufacturer as your phone.